I’ve always taken the harder path in life, searching for a place to belong and for someone to love me unconditionally. Racing 100 mph toward severe consequences, I was addicted to drugs and committing criminal acts for over ten years. I hit rock bottom on January 3, 2023, leading to my incarceration at the Kent County Correctional Facility—completely alone. During my spiral, I pushed everyone away or abandoned them entirely.
It took me a few weeks to realize that I was responsible for my situation and the alienation of my family. The mental and emotional weight of my isolation was unbearable. I felt it deep in my soul, and if it lasted a minute longer, I believed I would’ve lost my mind. I didn’t realize that my entire life was about to change. It all started when God sent a beautiful soul to invite me to a Bible study. At the time, I was hesitant, but I ultimately agreed to go.
I am forever grateful that I did, that class opened my eyes. There is more to life than just going through the motions. I was instantly in awe as a volunteer from Reach the Forgotten shared how God reached her when she needed Him most. She spoke of how Jesus saved us and no matter what we’ve done God will never forsake us, and I knew I needed to learn more. I wanted to have that kind of relationship with God.
After class, I had a feeling that I needed to act immediately. I wrote to the chaplain and requested a Bible and Bible studies. As I attended more Bible study groups and completed study packets, I asked the volunteers where to start in the Bible.
On March 3, 2023, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. My love for Him grew, and I spoke with Chaplain Karen about the God Pod (now called the ReLaunch Program). I wanted to know if it was what my heart and soul had been longing for. She encouraged me to request an interview. I didn’t know that she saw God’s light shining in me and spoke on my behalf.
A couple of days later, I met with Chaplain Barb. God had big plans for me. Within a week, I began my ReLaunch Program journey, and cannot express how much each class helped me grow closer to Jesus, strengthening my heart and mind. Each session brought healing to the broken parts of me that desperately needed mending. I learned how to write laments, journal my experiences, take detailed notes, and study God’s Living Word—something I continue to do to this day.
During my nine months in the ReLaunch Program (God Pod), I learned a great deal about myself. At times, the process was painful, but it helped me learn the power of forgiveness—even when it meant I might not be forgiven in return. I learned to forgive those who had hurt me, not necessarily for their sake, but for my own healing. I discovered how God intends for us to love one another and He created each of us with a divine purpose. Little by little, the program transformed me. I realized that I am never alone—God will always be by my side. ReLaunch helped repair relationships with family and friends that I had hurt. Pride can be more destructive than helpful, and I’ve struggled with pride and ego.
I honestly don’t know where I would be today if it weren’t for Reach the Forgotten. I wouldn’t have courage without the classes and deep heart work I did during my incarceration. ReLaunch helped refocus my heart and mindset—prioritizing doing good and becoming the person God destined me to be.
This program works. I am grateful for the volunteers who continue to walk this journey with me. They remind me that even when life feels chaotic and overwhelming, I will get through it—one day at a time—with God’s help. But I must fully surrender, placing my complete trust in Him, knowing that He will deliver in His perfect timing.
It has been a year since I was released from jail, and I am 23 months clean. I have a full-time job and the privilege to care for my grandbabies. God has restored many relationships that I ruined before I knew Him. I continue to have the support of volunteers from the ReLaunch Program, Chaplain Barb, and my pen pal who faithfully wrote to me while I was incarcerated. I am truly blessed. I work hard to help others whenever I can because I know it is part of my calling.
I strive to never take anything for granted. I do my best to live each day to the fullest, knowing that with God, anything is possible. No matter how difficult the journey, we must believe and trust in Him.